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How to Find Local Artisans
It can be challenging to discover local artisans and to locate them. This blog aims to provide a detailed guide on the various ways to discover artisans and specific locations where you can find them.
So, let's get started!
1. Markets
Markets are a Great Way to Discover a Market of Artisan Treasures with an Array of Different Vendors.
Queens Street Marketplace is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping small businesses create affordable and inclusive spaces within our Toronto community. As vendors ourselves, we understand the significance of being able to participate in public markets to showcase and sell artisan crafts. (Queen Street Marketplace)
Ethical Local Market is a local curated market that is a great place to find local artisans that specialize in jewelry, candles and face and body care. That focuses on ethical, sustainable small businesses that need a place to sell their products. It is all about 'Rooting For Each Other'
Toronto Artisan is a community-based non-profit organization that supports and benefits local artists, artisans, and the community. They create accessible and inclusive events dedicated to nurturing and promoting artistic talent and supporting the economic development of our local artists and vibrant city. Additionally, they develop programs designed to assist and encourage Black, Indigenous, POC, and LGBTQ+ artists and makers to ensure equal opportunity and diversity in our community.(Toronto Artisan Market)
Evergreen Brick Works is a place where people can experience and learn sustainable practices that enable the cities of the future.
Functions as a social enterprise, meaning that any profit we make from our revenue-generating ventures like hosting events, the Evergreen Garden Market or our camps and educational programs is invested in maintaining the Brick Works and used to fund Evergreen’s work across Canada. (Evergreen Brickwork)
Discover More Markets:
2. Online
Discover Unique Vendors from the Comfort of Your Home.
How about a wide selection of local artisans all in one convenient place? ELM-Ethical Local Market has it all and updates on when new vendors come into the store when subscribed to the newsletter. ELM focuses on ethical, sustainable small businesses.
Soeur Body and Candle is owned by two sisters who started making soap and candles for family and friends. These candles are hand poured and non-toxic. Great for gifts. Their focus is on cruelty free and sustainably made products that are fun.
It may take a little more digging to find what you are looking for on Etsy but it has a wide variety and an easy way to support small artisans. We recommend adding: "Sustainable" or "locally made" or "handmade" Then the item you desire in the search bar for best results.
3. Social Media
Social media is a great way to be engaged with artisans and know when they are releasing new items and also a great way to find similar vendors
Aaram Lux is where you can experience a tranquil moment with a lovely candle that doubles as a decorative piece. Hand-poured in Canada for a personal touch.
Curious Accessories is where you'll find handmade Jewelry from a local artisan in Toronto. Looking for unique pieces? You're in the right place. Al creates beautiful beaded pieces, some with a Japanese twist!
Ester, a Nurse, is the brains behind Pearl Queen Beauty. She fought her own skin battles and now offers non-toxic goodness to keep your face and skin happy. Everything's ethically sourced and handmade!
FAQ
Why is Supporting Local Artisans Important?
How can I support local retailers?
References
TORONTO ARTISAN MARKET - HOME, https://www.torontoartisan.com/. Accessed 14 June 2024.
“ABOUT.” Queen St Marketplace, https://www.queenstmarketplace.com/about-4. Accessed 14 June 2024.
“About Evergreen Brick Works.” Evergreen, https://www.evergreen.ca/evergreen-brick-works/visitor-info/about-us/. Accessed 14 June 2024.
